COVID-19 turns six this fall. While we may wish it didn’t, the good news is that we’re much more informed about the illness once considered mysterious, including its ever-changing symptoms.
“Each year and season, the COVID variants change,” says Dr. Sharon Nachman, MD, the chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. “As a result, often the symptoms change as well. In some years, we see mainly cough, while in others, we see severe sore throat.”
None of these symptoms sounds like a good time, but sick happens. So, what are the most common COVID-19 symptoms right now? We asked doctors to share what they’re seeing and hearing from patients about COVID-19 symptoms going into November 2025.
What Are the Most Common COVID-19 Symptoms in November 2025?
COVID-19 has evolved, but honestly, many physicians are seeing more of the same. “The most common symptoms are fatigue and fever,” says Dr. Michael Richardson, MD, a family physician.
He reports that other top COVID-19 symptoms in November 2025 include:
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Shortness of breath (in severe cases)
Scratchy “razorblade” throats were common during the summer of 2025. Some physicians are noticing less of this symptom, but others say it’s alive and well.
“We are hearing specifically about severe knifelike sore throat with far less cough as the primary symptom,” says Dr. Nachman, who practices on Long Island in New York. “That is not to say that we don’t also expect fever, body aches and cough to occur, but rather we are seeing more throat complaints than in prior seasons.”
Thankfully, some other dangerous symptoms and side effects of COVID-19 aren’t as prevalent in the fall of 2025. “While we are still seeing some COVID pneumonia, it is much less common than in prior years,” says Dr. Linda Yancey, MD, an infectious disease specialist with Memorial Hermann Health System.
Also, doctors continue to see far less of two other symptoms once considered COVID-19 hallmarks.
“Early strains of COVID used to make people lose their sense of taste or smell, but that symptom is significantly less common today,” says Dr. Michael Dosik, MD, a primary care physician with Medical Offices of Manhattan and contributor to labfinder.com.
If you do experience a loss of taste and smell, it’s a telltale sign you probably have COVID-19. However, there’s only one way to tell for sure whether you have COVID-19, the flu or RSV (or none of the above).
“The best way to distinguish between them is by testing,” Dr. Richardson clarifies. “All of them share similar symptoms.”
Luckily, as COVID-19 has evolved, so have we. “Tests come back within minutes, helping to guide treatment plans and to discuss with families the possibility of [preventative strategies] for the household members,” Dr. Nachman shares. “This is especially true for flu, where we have several easily available medications that people in close contact with flu can take to successfully prevent their own illness.”
Do We Really Need Another COVID Booster?
It’s a common question, especially amid new federal guidelines—and at times, conflicting state policies. However, doctors remain firm that getting a COVID-19 booster is safe, effective and an excellent defense against severe illness from the virus.
“All adults would benefit from a COVID booster,” Dr. Richardson says. “Like the flu shot, the COVID booster changes and is targeted to the current strain of the illness. Getting the booster will protect you from serious side effects if you do encounter COVID.”
He urges people to speak with their family physician if they have questions about the COVID-19 booster. Dr. Nachman also suggests having a close discussion with your medical provider, who knows your medical history, including your age and underlying conditions (like diabetes and lung disease), you have that might put you at a greater risk for severe illness and hospitalization.
“In general, it’s important to recognize that these vaccines will help prevent hospitalization and emergency room visits, but not every trace of illnesses,” Dr. Nachman says. “So, yes, it will be important to get these vaccines.”
When should you get your COVID-19 booster? If you’re reading this in November 2025, there’s no time like the present!
“Now is a good time to get a COVID booster,” Dr. Yancey urges. “Though most cases are mild, you can spare yourself a week of fever and cough, and you will be protecting your at-risk friends and family.”
Related: Immunologists Are Begging People Over 50 To Start Doing This 1 Daily Habit ASAP
What’s the Best Way To Treat COVID?
First, make sure you actually have COVID-19. “It’s important to be cautious and get an at-home COVID test to see if you have an active infection and need to isolate,” Dr. Richardson explains. “Then, depending on the results, you should isolate or wear a mask. If the test is negative, you should check again the next day if you are still having symptoms.”
If you’re positive, tell hustle culture to take a seat. “The best thing to do when you have COVID or any viral illness is rest and stay hydrated,” Dr. Dosik explains. “Your body is fighting a battle internally, and so you shouldn’t do anything to stress it externally. Using acetaminophen or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen can be useful to reduce high fevers and for pain relief to get you through the worst of the illness.”
FWIW, your colleagues and boss should thank you for calling out.
“If ill, please try to stay home from work,” Dr. Nachman advises. “It does not matter if you have RSV, the flu or COVID. You are highly contagious and likely to pass these viral illnesses to your co-workers.”
Related: These Are the Most Common Symptoms of the Flu That Doctors Are Seeing Right Now
What Protects You From COVID?
The basics still apply. “No surprises here: The best way to not get sick is to vaccinate, don’t share straws or drink from others’ cups, try to stay a few feet away from someone who is coughing and wash your hands,” Dr. Nachman says.
She reiterates that the vaccine can help prevent ER visits and hospitalizations. Cringe all you want at the idea of social distancing—it remains a best practice if someone near you seems sick. Respiratory viruses can spread through the air. The precise distance these germs can travel depends on the illness, but you likely don’t know what the person near you in the grocery store has.
“Some pathogens on things like door knobs or can easily pass when sharing drinks, so common sense always helps,” she adds.
Dr. Yancey notes that wearing a mask in crowded public spaces can also reduce viral spread. Ideally, you aren’t standing next to someone who is sick and contagious at the grocery store because they stayed home—and you’re doing the same.
“If you aren’t feeling well, stay home,” Dr. Richardson urges. “This will help you feel better faster and will also help by not spreading the illness to others…Before going back into the world, make sure you have been fever-free for the last 24 hours.”
As for all of those vitamins and supplements that promise to boost immunity? One-click buy with caution. “There is no conclusive data on the use of vitamins, over-the-counter supplements or anything that comes to us with just a personal recommendation,” Dr. Nachman reports.
Up Next:
Related: The Surprising Daily Habit That Can Make Your Vaccine Less Effective
Sources:
This story was originally reported by Parade on Nov 1, 2025, where it first appeared in the Health & Wellness section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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